Under the partnership, Northgate customers are now offered roadside recovery with 45-minute attendance times, in addition to mis-fuel, key and battery assist services.

Northgate said that the partnership is designed to ensure businesses utilising its services can deliver the highest levels of service to their customers by minimising the down time associated with vehicle breakdowns or servicing requirements.

In addition the AA partnership will also reduce Northgate’s previous call-out costs.

Northgate's customers will also benefit from vehicle warranty assistance and increased support patrol servicing across a wider geographic area, in addition to higher first time fix ratings and a quick-phone service, which allows businesses to dial for assistance faster

The partnership is also being rolled out across Northgate sister company Van Van Monster, which will see the commercial vehicle retailer provide a free 3-month AA Warranty and Roadside Assistance package, as part of a Customer Charter for all Van Monster customers that includes a 48-hour return policy.

The recent partnership also involves an AA Audited Inspection, whereby all of Van Monster's vehicles are inspected prior to sale to ensure the highest standard.

The inspection, which is audited and approved by the AA, includes checking the operation and condition of a minimum of 24 vehicle elements including mechanical parts, fluids and bodywork condition

The AA provides a number of unannounced inspections every month to ensure Van Monster's inspection standard is consistent.

The inspection is not offered by any other used van dealer.

Bill Parsons, head of purchasing for Northgate Vehicle Hire, commented: ‘Northgate is working hard to ensure the service it offers its customers is second to none; providing roadside assistance, and other AA services as standard, reinforces this commitment. We have every confidence in the partnership and look forward to seeing our customers benefit from it moving forward.’